Sensei David Hemming

I started Wado Ryu Karate in 1973 at the Mirfield Karate School where I trained for 5 years and then trained in Shotokan for a further 3 years. I had much success in competition Kumite winning the North of England Championship two years in a row. I achieved Sho-Dan and ran the Mirfield Karate School, teaching and training with Shane Riley in the mid 1970s.

I stared Aikido in 1979 under Sensei Riley and was the first student of Sensei Riley to be promoted to Sho Dan. I was promoted to Go Dan by Terry Bayliss Sensei at the White Rose 20th Anniversary after 20 years in Aikido.

I have been able to practice with many Japanese, European and American Sensei over the years. Having the opportunity to practice with Mochinzuki Sensei 10th Dan at Scarborough in 1981. Myself and Shane Riley were two of the first martial artists to be awarded a coaching license to teach self defence by the Martial Arts Commission.

Over the last 25 years I have been involved with the structuring and growth of the White Rose Aikikai. I have taught at Dewsbury Sports Centre since 1984 and I am presently a senior instructor and grading officer for White Rose Aikikai.